Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics

Program Description: Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics at The University of Chicago

The Bachelor of Arts in Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics at The University of Chicago offers a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the chemical and physical principles that underpin biological systems. This interdisciplinary program integrates coursework in chemistry, physics, biology, and mathematics to prepare students for diverse careers in research, medicine, academia, industry, and beyond. Students will explore the structure, function, and interactions of biomolecules such as proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and carbohydrates, gaining skills in experimental techniques, computational approaches, and data analysis. The program emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and experimental design, fostering both theoretical knowledge and practical laboratory experience.

Throughout the program, students have the opportunity to engage in research projects under the guidance of faculty members who are leading experts in the fields of biochemistry and biophysics. This hands-on research experience enables students to develop technical skills, interpret scientific data, and contribute to original scientific discoveries. The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their course selections to align with their specific interests and career goals, whether in scientific research, healthcare, biotechnology, or education.

In addition to coursework and research, students benefit from the vibrant academic community at The University of Chicago, participating in seminars, workshops, and collaborative projects that enhance their understanding of current scientific advances and ethical considerations in research. The program also prepares students to pursue graduate studies or professional careers by providing a solid foundation in scientific communication, ethics, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Graduates of the Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics program leave with a strong scientific background, laboratory proficiency, and critical analytical skills essential for success in the rapidly evolving life sciences sector. The University of Chicago's commitment to excellence in education and research ensures that students are well-equipped to become innovative leaders and informed citizens in the scientific community.

Biology Courses for Chemistry Students

• BC MB 30100 Basic Biochemistry and Mol. Biology*
• BC MB 30400 Protein Fundamentals*
• BC MB 30500 Fundamentals of Structural Biology*
• BC MB 30600 Nucleic Acid Structure and Function*
• BC MB 31000 Fundamentals in Molecular Biology
• BC MB 31200 Molecular Biology I
• BC MB 31600 Cell Biology I
• BC MB 32100 Designer Proteins and Peptides†
• BC MB 32200 Molecular Biophysics: Theory & Applications*
• BC MB 32300 Protein Molecular Structure & Function* 
• NPHP 31200 Signal Transduction and Cell Cycle Regulation
• NPHP 33600 Cell Signaling*
• NPHP 33200 Ion Channels and Excitable Membranes

Chemistry Courses for Biology Students

• CHEM 30400 Organometallic Chemistry*
• CHEM 30900 Bioinorganic Chemistry†
• CHEM 32100 Physical Organic Chemistry I*
• CHEM 32200 Organic Synthesis and Structure*
• CHEM 32300 Tactics of Organic Synthesis*
• CHEM 32400 Physical Organic Chemistry II:
• CHEM 32500 Bioorganic Chemistry†
• CHEM 33000 Complex Chemical Systems†
• CHEM 38700 Biophysical Chemistry*
• CHEM 36800 Advanced Computational Chemistry

• Sign up for an online application account.
• Register for and complete any and all standardized tests and keep that information ready when you work on your application. Have official scores submitted electronically by the testing agency to the University of Chicago.
• Contact individuals you would like to write letters of reference for your application, and give them plenty of time to do so. Detailed instructions will be included with your program’s application.
• Request transcripts from all post-secondary schools you have attended, and if needed secure translations.
• Update your resume or CV.
• Carefully prepare the specific components of each application, typically written statements or essays.
• Applicants to our graduate and professional programs are expected to be enrolled in or to have completed a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited college or university. Applicants from a three-year bachelor’s program will be given due consideration. Because all of our programs feature competitive admission, no particular academic degree or background will guarantee admission to one of our graduate divisions. Questions regarding eligibility for admission to a graduate or professional program should be directed to the admissions office of the division or school to which you are applying.
• Students may submit either the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). TOEFL or IELTS score reports are valid for two years, and scores will be considered expired if the test was taken more than two years prior to submission of the application. 

Scholarships

Funding Packages

The University of Chicago offers most doctoral students competitive funding packages, which cover tuition and student health insurance, as well as a stipend for living expenses and research support. These awards are typically for five years, with some variation by field, comparable to that at other institutions. Programs which are exceptions articulate their policies clearly on their own web sites. Because the cost of living in Chicago is notably lower than in many other major cities, our stipends allow for a comfortable, if not extravagant, lifestyle. For more information about specific funding for your degree program, please refer to the financial aid information for the programs you intend to apply to.

For some students, the nature of their project is such that it takes more than five years to complete the degree. In these cases, a wealth of additional opportunities are available, including continued funding by a research group; fellowships which support language study, travel, or dissertation research; and on- and off-campus positions teaching or exploring other career paths.

• AG Bell College Scholarship Program
• BMO Capital Markets Lime Connect Equity Through Education Scholarship
• Hellenic Times Scholarship Fund
• Point Foundation Scholarship

The Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics at the University of Chicago offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in biomedical research, healthcare, and related fields. This program emphasizes the fundamental principles of chemistry, biology, and physics, providing students with a solid foundation in molecular and cellular biology, organic and inorganic chemistry, physics, and mathematics. Students engage in rigorous coursework that covers topics such as structural biology, enzymology, gene regulation, and biophysical methods, equipping them with the analytical and laboratory skills necessary for advanced research.

In addition to coursework, students have opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research projects within the university's renowned research institutes and labs. The program encourages close collaboration with faculty members, fostering an environment of inquiry and discovery. Students are also provided with training in scientific communication, ethics, and the dissemination of research findings, preparing them for diverse career pathways in academia, industry, or healthcare.

The university offers state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories to support undergraduate research and experiential learning. The program typically includes interdisciplinary coursework, integrating principles from physics and mathematics to understand biological processes at a molecular level. Students have access to various seminars, workshops, and conferences to deepen their knowledge and stay updated on recent scientific advances.

Graduates of this program often go on to pursue professional degrees in medicine, dentistry, or graduate studies in biochemistry, molecular biology, or biophysics. The program’s focus on both theoretical understanding and practical skills makes it a rigorous and rewarding educational experience for students interested in the molecular mechanisms of life and disease.